Sanbona Game Reserve
Hotel
Close to the renowned Route 62, the malaria free, 540 square kilometres large Sanbona Game Reserve is picturesquely located at the foothills of the Warmwaterberg in the heart of the Little Karoo between Montagu and Barrydale.
The name Sanbona is a creation from the two words “San”, the nowadays common term for the original inhabitants of the region, and “bona”, describing the San’s vision and desire to settle in the Little Karoo.
Having partly been farmland in the 90s, the now protected read more » Wildlife Reserve Sanbona was handed back to Mother Nature. It is a success story and the people of the Sanbona Reserve nowadays take huge pride in the fact that it is the only reserve of the Western Cape Province to house the entire Big 5.
The landscape could not be more diverse: Soaring mountains with rugged formations are bordered by wide open plains, both bearing ancient rock paintings. Moreover, a total of 650 plant species and 160 bird species have been counted so far, just to give an example.
The natural beauty is matched by superb accommodation options. The Sanbona Game Reserve offers the discerning guest a choice between four luxurious lodges.
The painstakingly restored Tilney Manor radiates all the charm and elegance of the colonial era. Tilney offers only six finely appointed rooms. Consequently, the flair is highly exclusive and quiet. The personalised service and first-class cuisine are additional perks.
The Khanni Lodge nestles at the heart of an awe-inspiring valley that boasts a number of natural waterholes that make the area just perfect for wildlife observation.
The Dwyka Tented Lodge is set in a horseshoe shaped Karoo gorge framed by dramatic rock formations. The ambience is that of pioneer days, however, without any creature comforts having been sacrificed.
Finally, the Gondwana Lodge is the first choice for families. Gondwana sports magnificent views and, what is more, children will greatly enjoy the “Kids on Safari” excursions!
Living
The Sanbona Wildllife Reserve offers its discerning guests a choice of four highly luxurious lodges:
Tilney Manor was founded as early as 1898 as a fruit farm. About 5 decades later, in 1947, the Tilney read more » Post Office, in modern times the souvenir store, was added to the settlement. Three new, separate buildings complete the small complex. They accommodate the six spacious suites, four having been appointed with King Size Beds and two with double beds.
The suites are stunningly designed, the environment’s colours and impressions providing a background to a harmonic combination of San culture and Cape Georgian Décor elements.
The suite’s facilities include a private lounge with a fireplace, air-conditioning, a tea and coffee maker, minibar, safe, satellite-TV and a private veranda commanding a breathtaking view of the plain and the mountains –the perfect spot to sit, drink wine and watch the sun set.
The impressively large bathrooms feature twin sinks, a separate shower and toilet room, a romantic, stand-alone bathtub and an outdoor shower conveniently placed next to your private pool set in a beautiful garden.
The Tilney Manor Lodge would not be complete without a fully-fledged wellness centre and a swimming pool adjacent to a sun bathing deck, all framed by a skilfully landscaped garden with a pond.
The restaurant has been recently renovated and now picks up the Cape Georgian style of the suites. The lounge with a cosy fireplace is perfect for a winter’s night while a South African barbeque on the terrace will be a perfect summer pastime. At the Tilney Manor Lodge, you are sure to experience an adventurous and most memorable holiday.
Sanbona’s second five star hotel, the Khanni Lodge, lies hidden in a quite valley with a view of a waterhole. The exclusive country house has been designed in the style of a Karoo summer residence.
High, white-washed ceilings and open wooden beams radiate an airy and refreshing atmosphere. All guests are overwhelmed by the magnificent views of the vast expanse of pristine nature which can be enjoyed from any one of the private verandas or pools the suites are equipped with.
Culinary highlights can be enjoyed both in the classic dining room and on the idyllic patio featuring a barbeque.
Next on the list is the luxurious Dwyka Tented Lodge: Set stunningly amidst rugged rock formations, the lodge offers every comfort you could possibly desire.
The Dwyka Tented Lodge’s nine luxury tents are all equipped with exciting and refreshing outdoor showers as well as a private viewing platform complete with a plunge pool.
Last but not least, the Gondwana Lodge sports a magnificent panorama out over the Bellair Dam plains and the Anysberg Mountains. The twelve suites are all fitted with a separate shower and a private balcony or terrace.
Activities
The Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is one of South Africa’s very few regions, where you may not only spot the famous Big Five but moreover cheetahs, antelopes, zebras and –as a unique treat- two white lions.
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The white lion came to fame in Las Vegas but is a sensationally rare species in the wild.
Besides a classic open 4x4 safari, one of the best opportunities to observe these fascinating creatures is a scenic hot-air balloon ride.
Enjoy the spectacular sensation of drifting serenely above the enticing landscape. Good weather condition will allow you to silently sneak upon the wildlife from above. It is an experience all guests treasure for the rest of their lives.
The physically-fit will enjoy a hike through the untamed bush to discover the rock drawings of the indigenous Bushmen “San”.
The Bellair Dam, part of the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, also constitutes a well-worth visit. Having been constructed by local farmers in 1922, the huge water reserve covers more than 1.8 square kilometres of land. The historical aqueduct used to distribute the water presents an interesting feature.
After a long day spent exploring the region, come home to the Tilney Manor and spoil yourself at the well-equipped wellness centre. Oriental and occidental lore and methods have been fused into an integral concept offering the most advanced treatments.
At the wellness centre your circulation system will be stimulated, your muscle tensions relieved and your respiratory system strengthened. The dry climate of the semi-desert adds to the treatments’ effects. At the exclusive Tilney Manor House, special therapies can be tailored to address every distinguished guest’s personal needs.
